Does dalandan peel contain substances that are good as insect repellent?

Dalandan, also known as Philippine orange, is a citrus fruit (Citrus aurantium). Although there is some evidence suggesting potential properties of citrus fruits as insect repellents, there is limited scientific research specifically evaluating the insecticidal properties of dalandan peel. However, here's what we currently know:

Citrus Peel Oil: Citrus fruits, including dalandan, produce aromatic oils in their peels. These oils contain various compounds like limonene, linalool, and citronellol, which are known to have insect-repellent properties. These compounds can disrupt the sensory systems of insects, making it difficult for them to locate hosts or food sources.

Larvicidal Effects: Some studies have demonstrated that citrus peel extracts can exhibit larvicidal effects against certain insects. This means that the extracts can kill insect larvae before they mature into adults. The potency of these effects can vary depending on the insect species and the concentration of the extracts.

Repellent Effects on Adults: While there's evidence for larvicidal effects, limited studies have specifically examined the repellent effects of dalandan peel extracts against adult insects. Some preliminary research suggests that citrus peel extracts can repel mosquitoes, but more extensive investigations are needed to confirm their efficacy and duration of protection.

Practical Considerations: Even though some promising findings exist, it's important to note that the effectiveness of using dalandan peel as an insect repellent may depend on various factors such as the insect species, the concentration of the extract, environmental conditions, and the application method. Additionally, the use of natural insect repellents should always be considered as part of an integrated pest management strategy rather than the sole solution.

Further Research Needed: While the potential insecticidal properties of dalandan peel are intriguing, more research is necessary to fully understand their efficacy, safety, and field applications. Additionally, comparing dalandan peel with other popular insect repellent substances in controlled studies would provide valuable insights into its potential as a natural insect repellent.